Part of the Explorers series of books, this volume takes young readers in the middle grades (seven years of age and up) on a journey that stretches from the frigid Arctic to the beautiful coral formations found in warmer waters.

Along the coastline there are tidal pools with starfish, mussels and periwinkles to explore. Farther away from the shore you'll descend into the depths where colorful clown fish, manta rays, and sharks swim about.

Then it's time to don your diving gear to check out a shipwreck where you might find some treasure like old coins or come upon artifacts that date back centuries.

Everyone has to eat. So while you are underwater you will see how the fight for survival unfolds as creatures forage for food. While large whales mine the water for tiny plankton, cuttlefish catch their dinner by using long tentacles to grasp their meal.

To reach the depths where light doesn't penetrate, you'll travel in a submersible and see small lantern fish and other bioluminescent creatures that glow in the dark.

At the end of the volume, a More to explore section suggests activities and offers additional information on the general topics the author introduces.

If you are looking for a general introduction to marine science, this excellent book will serve as a catalyst that will pique your child's interest in the sea and its creatures.

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